Skin cancer is occurring at epidemic rates and affects people of all socioeconomic levels. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. Those who have fair skin, numerous sunburns, numerous moles, a history of tanning booth use or a family history of skin cancer are at highest risk for skin cancer. The most common skin cancers are known as non-melanoma skin cancers, with about 75% being Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCC) and about 25% being Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC). Basal Cell Carcinomas often appear as a shiny bump, whereas Squamous Cell Carcinomas often look like a rough, red scaly bump. Aggressive Squamous Cell Carcinomas are capable of spreading to other parts of the body (metastasis) and result in death.
Melanoma skin cancers occur less frequently but are significantly more deadly. Sadly, melanoma kills 1 person every hour in the U.S. Melanoma can arise on its own or from a pre-existing mole that becomes rapidly growing, itching, bleeding, or changing its color or surface.
Skin cancer is highly curable when identified in its earliest stages and treated appropriately. Screening by a board certified dermatologist can identify these lesions at their earliest stage when they are most curable.
Our board certified dermatologist evaluates concerning lesions on each patient’s skin with a dermatoscope, which can magnify the appearance of concerning lesions. Our goal is to provide you with outstanding care, providing each new patient with a thorough examination of the entire skin surface. We will also educate you about your skin and self screening, and on how to protect the skin from further sun damage.
For more information on skin cancers, we refer you to further reading on these websites:
www.skincancermohssurgery.org/skin-cancer/basics.php
www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/skin-cancer/skin-cancer
www.skincancer.org/